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Arsenal's manager has expressed concern that his squad's pursuit for titles this campaign is being threatened by a concerning circle of fitness setbacks and a grueling schedule.

Latest Team News

Key midfielder Declan Rice did not travel for the midweek trip to face Club Brugge due to sickness. Meanwhile, forward Leandro Trossard and center-back William Saliba are still unavailable.

There was, however, better news regarding Gabriel Jesus, with the Brazilian striker registered to their European squad. He comes in for the injured youngster Max Dowman, who picked up an foot problem.

"Training, no because we don't have time to train. But obviously the fact that you are without players, you are loading other players more, there's a consequence to that and it's a really vicious cycle."

Dowman's issue is the most recent in a extensive series of fitness problems for the club. Since the beginning of last campaign, they have recorded 95 injuries, the second-most total in the English top flight.

Extended Absentees

• Defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel Magalhães are not expected to return until the new year.
• Midfielder Kai Havertz continues to rehabilitate from knee and "requires more time," according to the boss.

Arteta rejected the idea that practice methods were to blame, citing a lack of time for sessions. He highlighted the pressure on available players, some of whom have featured over 150 matches in two seasons.

Recruitment Strategy

Despite a major off-season investment over £250 million, Arteta stated the team is unlikely looking to enter the January recruitment market.

"Right now we're just focusing on bringing the players back and with luck it will be a matter of weeks," he said. "It's clear how crucial those coming weeks are going to be."

Next Challenge

The squad suffered their initial loss in 18 games at the hands of Aston Villa, reducing their advantage at the top of the league to two points.

Focus now shifts to the Champions League, where a sixth group-stage victory would all but guarantee a knockout phase place. Winger Gabriel Martinelli could create a club record by scoring in a fifth consecutive Champions League fixture.

"The team is frustrated with the outcome, but we have to move forward," Martinelli stated. "It's not like all is going badly because we lost one game. So we stick together."